10 Bronx Gang Members Busted With The Help Of Facebook

New York’s “finest” has reportedly charged 10 members of the Bronx gang “280″ with conspiracy murder charges. The NYPD’s three-plus year sting operation was finally brought to a close with the help of Facebook, according to Gothamist.

According to NYPD reports, “Operation Crew Cut,” began three years ago in the Bronx’s Morrisania section. Thus far, 280′s alleged violent activities and those of their rivals have resulted in about 43 shootings. Investigators say gang members terrorized residents on a daily basis. The reckless ways of 280′s members with their alleged random shootings have kept their surrounding community in constant trepidation.

Special Narcotics Prosecutor Bridget G. Brennan issued the following statement about 280′s terrorizing ways, per Gothamist:

“Reckless, wanton shootings detailed in the indictment forced innocent bystanders to take cover and neighborhoods to conduct daily business in great fear for their safety and security. Targeting drug gangs involved in violence has significantly diminished shootings in these neighborhoods.”

Police also credited Facebook, which they say was instrumental in bringing the sting operation to a successful close, as they were able to track the alleged leadership of the gangs and view members pictured with wads of cash and flaunting flashy high-end cars. The NYPD also intercepted text message communications that were exchanged between the perpetrators.

The crackdown on gangs, New York City police believe, has greatly diminished the number of shootings in the Morrisania area; there were 34 shooting incidents in 2013, compared to 51 in 2011.